Caribbean cuisine is known for its vibrant flavors; one staple that stands out is lime pepper sauce. This tangy, spicy condiment is a must-have for anyone who loves bold tastes.

Lime pepper sauce adds a zesty kick to any dish, and it can be drizzled over curry, stew chicken, or fried rice.

My husband loves it in fish broth.

What is Caribbean Lime Pepper Sauce?

Caribbean lime pepper is a hot sauce with fresh limes and fiery peppers.

It is popular across Trinidad, where every family or cook often has their twist on the recipe. The sauce is a balance of heat and a citrusy tang, making it versatile and refreshing.

This sauce is widely used in Caribbean households to enhance dishes like grilled chicken or fish, rice and beans, roasted vegetables, and fried snacks like plantain chips.

Chunky lime pepper sauce requires you to squeeze out the juice, boil, skin, then grind in a food processor.

Key Ingredients

Limes: The star of the sauce, limes add a bright, tangy flavor that balances the heat.

Scotch Bonnet Peppers: These peppers bring the heat! Scotch Bonnets are known for their fruity, fiery taste.

Garlic: Adds depth and an aromatic punch.

Salt: Enhances all the other flavors.

Caraili: Adds more flavor.

Recipe: Easy Caribbean Lime Pepper Sauce

Ingredients:

4-5 fresh limes
3-8 Scotch Bonnet peppers (adjust to your heat tolerance)
3 garlic cloves
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup hot water
Caraili
Bird pepper (optional)
1 Carrot

Instructions:

Remove the seeds for less heat or keep them for a fiery kick. Use gloves to handle them!

Squeeze the lime juice out. Cut the limes remove the seeds and cook till tender if you wish you can still add some lime juice.

Roughly cut up or grind in a food processor the garlic, caraili, carrot, bird pepper, and boiled lime.

Add salt, lime juice, and hot water.

Pour the sauce into a sterilized glass jar or bottle and refrigerate. It can last up to a month.

Tips for Making the Best Lime Pepper Sauce

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Experiment with peppers: Try habaneros if Scotch Bonnets aren’t available.
Add a touch of sugar if too tangy.
Let the sauce sit out in the sun for days.

Final Thoughts

Caribbean lime pepper sauce is more than just a condiment; it’s a celebration of the region’s bold and flavorful culinary traditions.

More Caribbean Pepper Sauce